Financial Audit Division Report 11-20 | Released July 26, 2011 |
Audit Period: The fiscal year ended December 31, 2010.
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The Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission is comprised of six commissioners appointed by the Minneapolis City Council and a chair appointed by the Governor. The commission operates the Metrodome sports stadium. The commission earned approximately $20 million in revenue and spent $24 million on operations during fiscal year 2010.
In December 2010, heavy snow and ice, combined with high winds, caused the Metrodome’s roof to collapse. The replacement of the roof should be completed by August 2011. The commission had insurance to cover all but $25,000 of the cost of replacement.
There is substantial doubt about the commission’s ability to continue its operation of the Metrodome. The loss of major tenants significantly reduced the commission’s operating revenue and the use agreement with its remaining major tenant, the Minnesota Vikings, ends at the conclusion of the 2011 football season.